(Lead image courtesy: Burst. May not accurately reflect the steak at Mike’s “American”)

If you live or work near Springfield, VA, you may already know about dining at Mike’s “American” Grill (6210 Backlick Rd., Springfield, VA), a popular part of the Great American Restaurant Group which also includes favorites like Carlyle, Coastal Flats, Sweetwater Tavern, and Best Buns Bakery. This classic American steakhouse has been in business for over 30 years and continues to delight the area — and those who travel for miles around — to enjoy a meal in the company of friends and family.

What to Expect When Dining at Mike’s “American”

Built to resemble a turn-of-the-century warehouse in 1988, Dining at Mike’s “American” is a spacious two-story restaurant that feels even bigger due to its huge skylight. Inside, guests can saddle up to the full bar, or dine at the restaurant’s many tables and booths on both levels. There is an elevator, but the sweeping central staircase is pretty impressive, and it’s fun to explore and check out all of the eclectic decorations, including local photos and even vintage baseball paraphernalia that Mike’s “American” has on its wall displays. 

Another thing we love about the design and decor of this restaurant is that booths have hangers for coats and purses, which makes it easy to fit the family even during the colder winter months when everyone is bundled up. And ladies can conveniently stow their handbags where they will be within reach and not taking up space or on the floor. That’s a nice touch! 

Diners find that servers at Mike’s “American” are consistently pleasant and attentive, and have great recommendations. The restaurant usually has a tempting daily special or two, but even if you order off the main menu, wait staff are often able to offer substitutions (when necessary) without complaint.

Dining at Mike’s: The Prices

Prices at Mike’s “American” are mid-range, making this restaurant a casual and comfortable place for families to dine, but also a great place for business lunches and celebratory occasions. 

And there is something on the extensive menu for just about every taste, including a Kid’s Menu that has a little more than the usual chicken fingers and burgers, so young eaters can experience something new or train their palate while parents enjoy any of the popular offerings, including steaks, sandwiches, seafood, pasta, ribs, burgers, and dessert. 

Mike’s “American” also has vegan and gluten-free options, so it really is an ideal place for everyone to gather together for a great meal. 

Reviewers and online critics have said that diners should “leave your diet at the door” when visiting Mike’s “American” and after eating at this place, you’ll totally understand.

Among the most popular dishes is the Drunken Ribeye, a 5 Star® Reserve steak marinated in Great American Pale Ale and served with mashed potatoes and roasted cremini mushrooms. Other standouts include the Berkshire Pork Chop, a hickory grilled pork chop accompanied by mashed potatoes, grilled broccolini, and Huber’s roast corn salsa, and the Grilled Short Smoked Salmon Filet atop a bed of creamy garlic mashed potatoes. Yum! (Also, Kevin, on our team, highly recommends the Lobster Bisque – he gets it every time!)

Mike’s “American” is also the birthplace of the infamous Ozzie Roll, and in addition to this bread being absolutely delicious, it should be noted that the restaurant donates $2 of each order of rolls to be contributed to fighting food insecurity in Springfield and neighboring communities, and that’s a delicious win for everyone.  

There’s really only one downside to Mike’s “American,” which is that parking is difficult due to a limited number of spaces on the actual property. There is, however, overflow parking at the shopping center across the street. Just don’t park at the neighboring businesses that ask you not to because you are likely to be towed! 

Mike’s “American” takes walk-in guests, but for the most seamless experience, reservations are recommended (via Resy).

Check back often with LIST WITH ELIZABETH® to find out about more great businesses and community partners in our area. And if you’re in the market to live in a place that has excellent restaurants, vibrant shops, award-winning schools, and more fantastic neighborhood amenities, let us show you how you can make Northern Virginia your home.